Starting A Business In Spain: Key Steps

Published on September 30, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Spain offers a favorable environment for entrepreneurs looking to establish their business there. However, setting up a company in this country involves following a number of specific administrative procedures. Here is a detailed guide to help you navigate this process in 2025.

Key Steps to Launch Your Business in Spain

Setting up a company in Spain requires following several crucial steps. Although the process may seem complex at first, proper preparation and a clear understanding of the requirements will help you successfully complete your entrepreneurial project.

1. Obtain the Foreigner Identification Number (NIE)

Even before starting the company formation process, it is essential to obtain a Foreigner Identification Number (NIE). This number is essential for any foreigner wishing to conduct economic or professional transactions in Spain.

To obtain your NIE, you must:

• Go to the police station or the Oficina de Extranjería in Spain
• Or apply from France through the Spanish consulate
• Prepare your passport, the completed EX-15 form, and proof of your reason for moving (employment contract, lease, etc.)

2. Choose Your Company’s Legal Structure

Choosing the legal structure is a crucial decision that will significantly impact your tax and legal obligations. The most common forms for foreign entrepreneurs in Spain are:

• Sociedad Limitada (S.L.) – equivalent to the French SARL
• Sociedad Anónima (S.A.) – equivalent to the French SA
• Empresario Individual (self-employed)

3. Reserve Your Company Name

Once the legal structure is chosen, you must reserve your company name with the Registro Mercantil Central (Central Commercial Registry). This step is crucial as it guarantees the uniqueness of your business name.

4. Open a Business Bank Account

Opening a business bank account in Spain is an essential step. This account will be used to deposit your company’s share capital. To do this, you will need:

• Your NIE
• Proof of address in Spain
• Your passport or ID card

5. Draft the Company Bylaws

Your company’s bylaws must be written in Spanish and include essential information such as the company name, business purpose, share capital, and internal operating rules.

6. Sign the Deed of Incorporation Before a Notary

Signing the deed of incorporation before a Spanish notary is a mandatory step. The notary will verify the legality of all documents and proceed with the official registration of your company.

7. Obtain the Tax Identification Number (NIF)

After incorporating your company, you must obtain a Tax Identification Number (NIF) from the Spanish tax authority. This number is essential for all your company’s tax transactions.

8. Register with the Commercial Registry

Registration with the Commercial Registry (Registro Mercantil) is the final step to formalize your company’s creation. This registration grants your business full legal personality.

Essential Documents for Setting Up Your Company in Spain

Setting up a company in Spain requires preparing and submitting several essential documents. These documents vary slightly depending on the chosen legal structure, but some are common to all forms.

Documents Required for All Legal Structures

• Valid passport or ID card
• Foreigner Identification Number (NIE)
• Proof of address in Spain
• Company name reservation certificate
• Company bylaws
• Deed of incorporation signed before a notary
• Proof of share capital deposit in a Spanish bank account

Specific Documents for a Sociedad Limitada (S.L.)

The Sociedad Limitada is the most popular legal structure among foreign entrepreneurs in Spain. In addition to the documents mentioned above, you will need to provide:

• Bank certificate proving the deposit of the minimum share capital of 3,000 euros
• Declaration of the company’s ultimate beneficial owners

Specific Documents for a Sociedad Anónima (S.A.)

The Sociedad Anónima is typically chosen for larger-scale projects. For this legal structure, you will also need to present:

• Bank certificate proving the deposit of the minimum share capital of 60,000 euros
• Report evaluating non-monetary contributions (if applicable)
• List of shareholders and their capital participation

Documents for Empresario Individual (Self-Employed)

For entrepreneurs wishing to operate as self-employed individuals, the documentary requirements are less burdensome. You will need:

• Activity declaration to the tax authority (form 036 or 037)
• Registration with the Social Security for self-employed workers

Optimize Your Steps for Successful Business Creation in Spain

Setting up a company in Spain may seem complex, but with proper preparation and a clear understanding of the steps to follow, you can navigate this process effectively. Here are some tips to optimize your procedures:

1. Anticipate Timelines

The process of setting up a company in Spain can take several months. Therefore, it is crucial to start your procedures well in advance and build buffers into your schedule.

2. Get Professional Assistance

Consider hiring a lawyer or manager specialized in company formation in Spain. Their expertise can save you valuable time and prevent costly mistakes.

3. Master the Language

Proficiency in Spanish is a major asset in your procedures. If this is not your case, do not hesitate to hire a professional interpreter to assist you during important appointments.

4. Prepare for Tax Specifics

The Spanish tax system has its particularities. Research your tax obligations thoroughly based on the legal structure chosen for your business.

5. Networking

Build a professional network in Spain. Join associations of foreign entrepreneurs or chambers of commerce. These contacts can be valuable for understanding the subtleties of the Spanish market.

Conclusion: Your Entrepreneurial Adventure in Spain Starts Now

Setting up a company in Spain is a process that requires patience, rigor, and good preparation. However, with the right information and adequate support, you can successfully navigate these administrative procedures.

Spain offers a dynamic and favorable environment for entrepreneurs, with a growing market and opportunities in many sectors. By meticulously following the steps outlined in this guide, you will lay solid foundations for your future business in Spain.

Remember that each step, from obtaining your NIE to registering with the Commercial Registry, is crucial to ensure the legality and proper functioning of your company. Take the time to understand each requirement thoroughly and do not hesitate to seek professional help if necessary.

With determination and proper preparation, your entrepreneurial project in Spain has every chance of success. Good luck in your new adventure!